International Women’s Day is approaching and with it comes an opportunity to remember the incredible women of the Bible who made a big impact. Women in the Bible played vital roles in God’s story, just as they do today. From acts of courage and leadership to unwavering faith, these women remind us that God calls and equips everyone to serve His kingdom.
We all can easily look up to the powerful men of the Bible. The twelve disciples, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Moses, David, Elijah, Isaiah, the list goes on. When you think of influential women of the Bible, who comes to mind? Let’s remind ourselves and the kids in our churches of the women who faithfully served God.
- Esther – Courage to Stand for What’s Right
The Book of Esther tells the story of a young Jewish woman named Esther who becomes the queen of Persia and uses her position to save her people, the Jews. She saves them from a plot to annihilate them by secretly revealing her Jewish identity and appealing to the king to revoke the decree. Esther risked her life to save her people, demonstrating courage and faith. Her story teaches kids the importance of trusting God even in difficult situations (Esther 4:14).
- Deborah – A Leader and Wise Judge
Deborah was a wife, prophetess, and judge of Israel. As a prophetess, she received divine revelations from the Lord and was a charismatic leader. As a judge, her responsibilities were similar to a judge you’d meet today, a leader who’d arbitrate legal disputes. Her leadership as a prophetess and judge of Israel was one of wisdom and strength. She reminds us that God can use anyone to lead with confidence and that faith and courage are important (Judges 4-5).
- Mary, the Mother of Jesus – Trusting God’s Plan
Mary was chosen by God to conceive Jesus through the Holy Spirit. Though initially perplexed, questioning how it could be possible since she was a virgin, she ultimately responded with submission and faith. Mary humbly accepted God’s calling to be the mother of Jesus. Her faith and obedience show us the beauty of saying “yes” to God’s plan (Luke 1:38).
- Ruth – Loyalty and God’s Provision
Ruth was a Moabite woman who showed unwavering loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, after the loss of their husbands. She chose to follow Naomi to Bethlehem, where she worked in the fields of Boaz, a kind and generous man who later married her. Ruth’s faithfulness and trust in God led to her becoming the great-grandmother of King David, placing her in the lineage of Jesus Christ. Ruth’s story of faithfulness and trust in God’s provision encourages us to remain loyal and trust that God has a purpose for our lives (Ruth 1:16-17).
- Priscilla – A Teacher of God’s Word
Priscilla was a devoted follower of Jesus and a key leader in the early church alongside her husband, Aquila. She played a vital role in teaching others about Christ. Priscilla and Aquila worked as tentmakers with Paul and hosted a church in their home, demonstrating hospitality and dedication to spreading the gospel. Priscilla’s story shows that God equips us to share His truth (Acts 18:24-26).
The list could easily go on and on, there is no shortage of incredible women in the Bible. By teaching kids about these amazing women of the Bible, we help them understand that God values and uses everyone for His glory. Whether a child is a boy or girl, they can be encouraged to live with faith, courage, and wisdom, just like these biblical role models.
This International Women’s Day, let’s celebrate and remember the strong and faithful women in Scripture and in our lives who point us to Jesus!